Who We Are
Our Mission & Values
Our founders, Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley, held a deep connection to land, the arts, and cultural collections. They believed all three are essential to our humanity. Their commitment to the communities in the Chicago region and the Lowcountry of South Carolina continues to guide our work today.
Our People
GDDF is powered by a remarkable team of passionate people who have worked in the nonprofit issue areas they serve now. Their expertise and unwavering commitment drive our mission to sustain and build resilient, vital, engaged, and equitable communities in our two regions.
Our History
The Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, founded in 1952, honors the legacy of its namesakes. Gaylord and Dorothy were avid outdoors lovers and lifelong supporters of the arts. They played a pivotal role in preserving natural areas and supporting the arts in the Chicago area and the Lowcountry of South Carolina. The Donnelley’s publishing tradition also inspired an interest in archives and cultural collections.
Today, their descendants remain committed to the vision and values championed by Gaylord and Dorothy. Family members actively guide the Foundation with the help of dedicated board members and staff.
